Manufacturer · Fashion & Home Accessories
Cord stoppers for backpacks must hold under constant tension, be operable with gloves on and withstand cold, moisture and sun. The most common are spring or toggle cord stoppers in polyacetal, cord stoppers with a loop for fixing to the product and models with a large hole for shock cord. The right cord stopper depends on whether the cord closes an opening, compresses a load or holds equipment on the outside.
Where cord stoppers are used on backpacks and bags
- Closing the top opening – the extension sleeve of hiking backpacks and duffel-style bags is cinched with a cord and cord stopper.
- Outer bungee lacing – criss-crossed shock cord for a jacket, helmet or sleeping mat, adjusted with a cord stopper.
- Load compression – adjusting the volume of the backpack.
- Lids and pockets – adjusting the backpack lid or the side bottle pockets.
- Covers and sacks – covers for tents, sleeping bags, shoes and sports equipment.
- Tents and tarps – adjusting guy lines and closing vents.
Types of cord stoppers for backpacks and outdoor gear
Spring and toggle cord stoppers
This is the main type. Toggle models with an elongated body are easy to grip and press even with thick gloves. On backpacks, larger bodies are preferred than on clothing, because the cords are thicker and adjustments are often made on the move.
Cord stoppers with loop and with base
With outer bungee lacing and adjustment cords, it is important that the cord stopper does not slide along the cord. That is why models with a loop through which a tape passes, or with a base that is sewn or riveted to the product, are used. This way the cord stopper stays in a fixed position, while the elastic does the work.
Cord stoppers with a cap for the cord end
Some models have a cap in which the knot at the end of the cord is hidden. The solution is clean, protects the end from fraying and prevents the cord from slipping out of the cord stopper.
Cord stoppers without a spring
On covers and sacks that are rarely adjusted, simple cord stoppers that hold by friction are used. They are light and have no metal parts.
Shock cord and cord stoppers
Shock cord is the most widely used cord on backpacks. It thins when stretched, so the cord stopper must be chosen to hold even at maximum tension. Choose a hole at the lower limit for the cord diameter and test the grip with a loaded cord. Also pay attention to the surface: a smooth polyester sheath slips more than a matt one. You will find suitable cords in the cords and elastics categories.
Material requirements
| Condition | What to check |
|---|---|
| Cold | The plastic must not become brittle; the button must be operable with gloves |
| Moisture and rain | Stainless spring; no metal parts that corrode |
| Sun (UV) | Stable colour and strength under prolonged exposure |
| Sand and dust | The button must not jam; easy to rinse with water |
| Weight | Minimum weight for ultralight backpacks |
For outdoor equipment, cord stoppers in polyacetal or polyamide are preferred. Metal cord stoppers are used on city backpacks and higher-end bags, where appearance matters more than weight.
Size and body shape
On backpacks, the cord stopper is often adjusted while the backpack is being worn, or with one hand. So the body must be large enough to grip and have a clearly shaped button. At the same time, the cord stopper must not stick out and catch on branches and rocks. Flat models and models with a loop that lie close to the product are a good compromise. For children's backpacks, choose rounded shapes without sharp edges.
Colours and visibility
Plastic cord stoppers for outdoor use can be in the colour of the backpack, in a contrasting colour so they are easier to find, or black as a universal option. Some brands use a bright cord stopper as a distinctive detail of the product line. Colour to a sample is possible with plastic models, and minimum quantities depend on the article.
Fitting in backpack production
On backpacks, cord stoppers are often fitted at an earlier stage of sewing than on clothing, because once certain seams are closed the cord ends become inaccessible. Plan the sequence as follows:
- Sew or rivet the bases and loops of the cord stoppers, if the model requires it.
- Thread the cord through the eyelets, loops or webbing keepers.
- Fit the cord stoppers and position them as on the approved sample.
- Finish or sew the cord ends before closing the last seam.
- Check the adjustment of every finished product during quality control.
When the cord stopper is part of bungee lacing, record the exact relaxed cord length in the technical sheet. Even a difference of a few centimetres changes the tension and the feel in use.
Common mistakes
- A cord stopper sized for the relaxed cord, which slips under tension.
- Too small a body, which cannot be gripped with gloves.
- A loosely hanging cord stopper that catches and tears off.
- An unfinished cord end that frays and slips out of the cord stopper.
- No testing in the cold and under prolonged use.
You will find models for backpacks, bags and equipment in the cord stoppers category.
Cord stoppers for backpacks from Polkom
Polkom is a Bulgarian manufacturer and wholesale supplier of accessories for clothing, bags and equipment, based in Sofia, with over 30 years of experience. We offer cord stoppers, cords and elastics selected as a set, including in a colour to a sample and with logo. Send us a description of the backpack or cover, the type of cord and the conditions of use via our inquiry form.
